RICHARD Horne admits the presence of new Hull FC coach Lee Radford on the training field has kept the players on their toes.
As well as organising and taking sessions alongside assistant coach Andy Last, Radford has been throwing himself into some of the drills.
The 34-year-old can also be seen pulling on his boots for rugby union outfit Hull RUFC on some weekends, keeping his fitness levels up to those required for National League Two.
Having replaced Peter Gentle as head coach, his direct on-field involvement is one of the most marked differences at the Black and Whites.
But Horne, himself a veteran of 15 Super League seasons, says it has only benefited himself and his team-mates.
"Radders is still playing some rugby, which adds something extra to training than what other coaches can maybe offer," he told the Mail.
"What is good too is that Lee is still playing, which gives training that little bit more of an edge than other coaches.
"It has been really tough, and Radders has got the squad working extra hard.
"But it's exciting to see the new boys come in and gel, and everyone's feeling great and can't wait to get cracking.
"All of the boys are getting on with each other and settling in."
Hull have enjoyed a couple of rest days this week, but still have a few weeks of training remaining before Christmas and plans are in place to train over the festive period.
Horne realises he must maintain his fitness carefully if he wants to recapture the form which saw him labelled as Hull's most consistent player last season before a foot injury struck.
Assistant coach Andy Last admitted Hull will take extra care of Horne and Gareth Ellis, who both turn 32 soon.
Although this week has been relaxing and saw the Black and Whites take part in a karting day, home-town boy Horne is enjoying the tough pre-season slog.
"We had the army camp just over a month ago, but the coaching staff have given us this week to have some well-deserved rest," he said.
"We know a lot of the hard work is still to come, though.
"It's becoming more important for me to recover after training as I'm getting on a bit now.
"But the coaching staff have had a chat with me to see where I am in terms of fitness, and I'm feeling really good ahead of the new year."
